More to Brazil than just the World Cup
Sure, soccer is all-consuming, but there are plenty of great sights to see this month
We all know Brazil will be ablaze with football fever this month into next, but what else can you enjoy when you are there?
Brazil is the most-visited country in South America and those thinking about a summer getaway can consider the following “football-free” events Brazil has to offer this summer, as compiled by travel booking website Expedia. ca: Festas Juninas (June): Throughout the month of June, residents from coast to coast will participate in saintly celebrations across Brazil in memory of St. Anthony (June 13), St. John (June 24) and St. Peter (June 29). Not only will Brazilians be paying homage to these famous saints, but they will also be feasting with family and friends, while they enjoy food, fun and festivities. For a really memorable experience, you can visit the Cristo Redentor in Rio de Janeiro, a 30-metre tall statue of Jesus Christ that looks over the city with outstretched arms, or check out Campina Grande, Pernambuco, to partake in Brazil’s largest Festa Junina festival. Dia dos Namorados (June 12): Brazil will be celebrating its Valen- tine’s Day on June 12.
What could be more romantic than celebrating Dia dos Namorados, translated as “lovers day,” in romantic Rio or sizzling Salvador. If you do end up in Rio de Janeiro, be sure to visit Arpoador Rock for a sunset that will leave you breathless. It’s the perfect thing to share with the one you love. Brasilia Rock Festival (June 6): If your idea of fun involves loud and lively, but not in the roaring soccer fan way, check out Porão do Rock, the largest music festival in Brasilia, Brazil’s capital. Celebrating its 16th season, this concert extravaganza will have visitors rocking and rolling to local favourites. If your credo is “the sea is for me,” you can join the many crowds along the Cove of Fortaleza during the annual sailing festivities of Regata da Jangadas in July. And, if you’re the adventurous type, you may wish to consider a ride on a jangada, a fisherman’s boat, for the best view. Folklore Festival (Aug. 15-23): Every two years, the city of Passo Fundo hosts it famous international folklore festival, one of the largest of its kind in the Americas. Featuring performances from students throughout the day and entertainment from the community into the evening, this festival was originally created to share culture around the world and to promote peace among people.